Orthotics and Bracing

Custom Molded Orthotics

Custom molded orthotics are a central part of the care of foot and ankle problems. Many foot and ankle problems including ankle instability, tendonitis, plantar fascitis, bunion deformity and arthritis are caused by poor foot position or alignment and can be dramatically improved with use of custom orthotics. The purpose of the device is to hold the foot in a certain position while controlling the amount of motion the joints go through during the gait cycle.

Every situation and every foot and ankle requires a different amount of control and positioning. At the same time, every foot has a unique arch and foot type. For these reasons, custom orthotics are significantly more appropriate than over the counter type arch supports. There are several different types of shoe orthotics from those for athletic shoes to those that are very thin used for dress shoes.

Orthotics:

Custom molded orthotics are a central part of the care of foot and ankle problems. Many foot and ankle problems including ankle instability, tendonitis, plantar fascitis, bunion deformity and arthritis are caused by poor foot position or alignment and can be dramatically improved with use of custom orthotics. The purpose of the devise is to hold the foot in a certain position while controlling the amount of motion the joints go through during the gait cycle. Every situation and every foot requires a different amount of control and positioning. At the same time, every foot has a unique arch and foot type. For these reasons, custom orthotics are significantly more appropriate than over the counter type arch supports. There are several different types of orthotics from those for athletic shoes to those that are very thin used for dress shoes.

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Sample Orthotics:

The making of orthotics is as much art as technology. It is essential perform a complete foot and ankle exam and check foot position prior to manufacturing of orthotics. Dr. Wilkes will perform a gait analysis and examination of the foot and then determine the proper type of orthotic based on your foot type, pathology, activity level and shoe type.

The most reliable and accurate method of capturing the patient’s foot impression is by taking a plaster mold of the foot, This is performed in a off weight situation, holding the foot in the desired functional position while the plaster hardens. This mold is then sent to a leading manufacturer with the specific instructions and prescription for the desired correction of your particular foot.

When the orthotics are ready the patient will return to the office to be fitted with the orthotics in the shoes. Another gait analysis will be performed to be certain the orthotics are performing the desired effect. There will be an initial break in period during the first week of use. After this period of getting used to the orthotics, full use of the device is advised in all shoes able to accept the devise. The patient will keep the molds of the orthotics in cases where additional pairs are needed. The molds are simply sent to the manufacturer with a new prescription without the need for new impressions.

Typical example of athletic orthotic with full length cover to the tip of the toes.

Typical dress orthotic with shorter cover and less depth to fit dress shoes.

Braces:

There are several instances when more extensive bracing is required to accommodate a deformity or an injury. These braces are custom made. They can be for temporary use or for long term use.

The following are examples of different types of braces:

Example of custom functional brace used for multiple types of injuries including tendon, ankle, and bone injuries.

Example of custom functional brace used for multiple types of injuries including tendon, ankle, and bone injuries.

Example of custom functional brace used for multiple types of injuries including tendon, ankle, and bone injuries.

We make orthotics and custom braces for professional and college athletes in many sports. We offer orthotics for everyone from small children to the elderly and weekend athlete. Prior to any form of surgery, we will discuss the potential benefits of orthotics and/or braces, analyze your foot type and discuss the potential type of device needed.